Level Switches
Application Benefits
Level switches are used to control pumps, alarms, and other equipment based on the level of liquid, powder or granulates in a tank.
Switches offer significant benefits for industrial applications by monitoring to prevent spills and equipment damage, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce downtime.
Types of Level Switches
A level switch opens or closes an electrical circuit when the material level reaches a specific point within a tank. Various types of level switches are suited to different applications and materials:
Float Level Switch:
Uses a float attached to a rod or cable that rises and falls with the liquid level, triggering the switch at a certain point.
Conductivity Level Switch:
Measures the electrical conductivity of the liquid to determine the level. It is commonly used for conductive liquids like water.
Ultrasonic Level Switch:
Utilizes ultrasonic waves to detect liquid level by sending sound waves into the container and measuring the echo return time.
Capacitance Level Switch:
Detects changes in capacitance caused by the presence or absence of material. It is suitable for liquids and solids.
Optical Level Switch:
An infrared LED and a phototransistor are used to detect transparent or translucent liquid levels, triggering the switch based on changes in light reception.
Vibrating or Tuning Fork Level Switch:
Employs a vibrating fork to detect material presence, with vibration frequency changes triggering the switch.
Rotary Paddle Level Switch:
Features a mechanically rotating paddle that stops rotating when covered by material, triggering the switch.
Non-Invasive Ultrasonic Level Switches
At ABM, we specialize in ultrasonic technologies, offering a non-invasive ultrasonic level switch. Key features and benefits of this switch include:
Non-contact operation:
Eliminates the need for probes or sensors to contact the liquid, which is beneficial for applications where contact is impractical or undesirable, such as food or pharmaceutical tanks where a sterile environment is crucial.
Versatility:
Ideal for various liquids such as water, oil, or chemicals and applicable to multiple containers, tanks, or pipes, ensuring suitability for different industrial uses.
Easy installation:
Can be easily installed on plastic or metal tank exterior with a strap or magnetic flange. No drilling into tank walls, system modifications, or downtime required.
Non-intrusive to the process:
Operate without physical contact, ensuring the process remains undisturbed to ensure integrity. An example would be high-pressure vessels (i.e. compressors), where safety is critical.
Reliable and accurate measurement:
Provide consistent and precise level detection, unaffected by liquid conductivity, temperature, or viscosity. Advanced signal processing algorithms enhance measurement accuracy by filtering out noise and interference.
Maintenance-free:
No moving parts and no contact with liquid (i.e. no probes requiring replacement or regular cleaning due to build-up).
Conclusion
In conclusion, level switches are essential for managing material levels across various industries. Each type offers specific benefits for different applications.
ABM’s non-invasive ultrasonic level switch is an ideal solution for many liquid detection applications, including those with vapours, gases and foam, as operation is not influenced by the material nature or environment. Installation is simple with no drilling and operation is maintenance-free with non-contact liquid level detection.